12 Best Residential Gutter Guards

Gutter guards protect your gutters from debris that causes clogging. With gutter guards, cleaning is easier and less time-consuming. You only clean the surface instead of scooping dirt from the trenches.

Residential Gutter Guards

Types of Gutter Guards


Brush

Gutter brushes have bristles to add a protective layer to gutters. The bristles allow water to flow while preventing leaves and dirt from passing through. The bristles also prevent nesting. Gutter brushes come in a diameter of 4 to 8 inches to suit all gutters.

The brush bristles are made of propylene. Propylene is corrosion-resistant and rigid, making it suitable for all weather conditions. Gutter brushes are available in sections and rolls. They are flexible, so you can fold and cut them to the desired lengths.


Foam

Foam is a sponge fitted underneath the gutter hangers to prevent clogging while allowing rainwater to flow. Foam gutter guards are inexpensive gutter filters. However, foam only lasts a few years since it collects water, seeds, and shingle granules in the pores.


Micro-Mesh

A micromesh filters pine needles, leaves, and debris. They are made from aluminum or stainless steel to prevent rusting. Standard-size micromesh gutter guards fit all gutter sizes. These gutter guards are modular and attach using screws. Manufacturers offer 20+ years or lifetime warranty on mesh gutter guards.


Mesh Screens

Mesh screens have perforations to let water through while keeping large particles out. Unlike micro-mesh, gutter screens have large holes that let small particles through. The tiny particles wash away when it rains. For metal roofs, reinforcing mesh screens on the gutter lip and fascia board makes them sturdy. You can also slide them beneath the first layer of shingles.

PVC Cover

Plastic and vinyl screens are low-cost gutter guards. The downside is they warp under heat and can’t withstand heavy use. When snow or dirt piles on plastic guards, they bend and crack. Polyethylene (PET) gutter guards are better for extreme weather. PET is corrosion resistant and takes longer to deteriorate.


Surface Tension

Reverse curve/ surface tension gutter guards guide water to the gutter through a downward curve. The reverse curve creates surface tension only to let water through. Debris falls off the guard onto the ground. Reverse curve gutter guards require professional installation. Most notable brands offer a warranty.


Top Professional Gutter Guards

You need a gutter guard that works well and lasts a long time. Some need professional installation, while others are easy to DIY.

LeafFilter

Leaf Filter gutter

LeafFilter is a micro-mesh and a plastic screen that removes all dirt from your gutters. LeafFilter gutter guard attaches using hangers to the fascia. The company offers free estimates and on-site visits. The brand has a team of professionals to help you with installation.

Key Features

  • 275-micron stainless steel mesh
  • uPVC frame
  • Professional installation
  • Lifetime transferable warranty

Pros

  • Installed at an angle for maximum filtration
  • Hangers ensure the greatest support
  • Offer gutter installation services
  • Sturdy and non-corrosive

Cons

Not available in all states


HomeCraft

HomeCraft

HomeCraft Gutter Protection sells micro-mesh gutter guards and offers gutter replacement services. Their gutter guards are made of marine-grade stainless steel.

HomeCraft’s patented micro-mesh technology prevents debris from blocking your gutter system. The technology comes at a low price point. You don’t need to clean your gutters more often. Micro-mesh screens from HomeCraft withstand extreme weather conditions.

Their aluminum frame prevents any gaps from forming between the guards and the gutters. HomeCraft’s professional installers secure the gutters to the roof’s fascia boards with hangers.

Key Features

  • Material: Marine Grade Stainless steel
  • Powder-coated aluminum frame
  • Diamond Raised Screen Technology
  • Lifetime transferable warranty

Pros

  • Free home inspection and estimates
  • Screwed in for durability
  • Non-invasive to the roof
  • Flexible to fit most gutter sizes

Cons

  • Needs professional installation

Klean Gutter

Klean Gutter

Klean Gutter sells affordable gutter guards to homeowners looking to avoid regular maintenance. The brand’s gutter guard systems feature a plastic frame and a metal mesh. Its construction allows for expansion and contraction during temperature fluctuations.

Key Features

  • 99% copper micro-mesh with stainless steel
  • Downward channel to increase water flow
  • Mounted to the fascia or under shingles
  • Available for 5- and 6-inch gutters
  • 25-year defect-free warranty

Pros

  • Slopes at the same angle as the roof
  • Strong and durable material
  • Suitable for snowy and icy regions
  • Installed by a dealer or licensed contractor

Cons

  • You can’t install them on gutter straps

MasterShield

MasterShield

MasterShield micro-mesh gutter guards have three copper strips woven into a filter. The gutter cover slides under shingles at a pitch to prevent dirt and ice build-up. Mastershield uses a patented HydroVortex technology that makes their gutters self-cleaning.

The company offers free estimates and in-home inspections. They also state that leaf guards range from $1.2 to $10 per foot. With the optional add-ons like gutter heaters, you can spend up to $25 per linear foot.

Key Features

  • 99% copper wires
  • 316 surgical grade stainless steel mesh
  • 50-micron holes on the mesh
  • Ice Shield for cold regions
  • Available in 14 colors
  • Lifetime transferable warranty

Pros

  • Minimal cleaning required
  • Installed at the same pitch as the roof
  • No-clog warranty
  • Made from 95% recycled aluminum

Cons

  • MasterShield might not work on strapped gutters

Gutter Helmet

Gutter Helmet

Gutter Helmet sells a reverse curve gutter guard system with a ribbed surface. When water hits the textured surface, it’s forced into the gutters. Due to surface tension, leaves and dirt fall off the roof.

The ⅜-inch gap maximizes water flow to the gutters. Gutter Helmet guards attach using brackets for a firm grip. Gutter Helmet dealers are available in over 30 states across the US.

Key Features

  • Anti-corrosive aluminum alloy brackets
  • Patented nose forward design
  • Textured and ribbed surface
  • PermalifeTM finish available in various colors
  • Lifetime transferable warranty

Pros

  • Anti-corrosive system
  • High tensile strength
  • The warranty is on materials and performance
  • They install heating cables to prevent icicles

Cons

  • Several installation complaints on BBB

My Gutter Guards

My Gutter Guards

MyGutterGuards helps consumers compare prices from top gutter protection companies. You can choose gutter types like foam, micro-mesh, screens, and more. MyGutterGuards partners with Modernize Finance. Their main page has a cost calculator to help you make project estimates. The brand also has financing options for home improvement.

Key Features

  • Gutter guards marketplace
  • Connects homeowners with contractors
  • Contractors’ reviews available on the site
  • Price estimates

Pros

  • Gives a custom cost estimate
  • Financing available
  • Various warranty options
  • You can request a free quote from companies

Cons

  • They only give referrals

All American Gutter Protection

All American Gutter Protection

All American installs gutter guards across 15 states in the US. Their gutter guards consist of a steel micro-mesh and aluminum frame. The metal frame can withstand harsh weather while keeping tiny dirt and pine needles off. All Americans are well-known for their product discounts. Seniors and military personnel also get 10% off All American gutter guards.

Key Features

  • Steel micromesh screen
  • 100% aluminum frame
  • No bending, warping, or cracking
  • Free estimates
  • Lifetime performance guarantee

Pros

  • Price estimates are valid for one year
  • They offer great discounts
  • Prevents nesting

Cons

  • Available in a few states

Top DIY Gutter Guards

DIY gutter guards have simple designs for easy installation. Some DIY gutter guards are tool-free. Gutter brushes, for instance, slide into the gutters without any reinforcement. DIY gutter screens need fasteners to stay in place.

Frost King

Frost King

Frost King is a plastic mesh that protects your gutters from leaves and debris. The mesh is 6 inches wide and comes as a 20 feet (6.1 m) roll. It is easy to install the mesh since it’s flexible. Frost King is a seamless gutter guard. You only need a pair of scissors to cut it into the desired length.

Key Features

  • Flexible plastic mesh
  • ¼-inch wide mesh openings
  • Non-corrosive
  • Installs under shingles

Pros

  • It fits most roof types
  • Budget-friendly
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • It doesn’t filter out pine needles, and small dirt

Raptor Gutter Guard

Raptor Gutter Guard

Raptor gutter cover comprises a micro-mesh surface with an aluminum frame. It fits on all roof types and attaches using screws. Raptor Gutter Guard filters out all particles and self-cleans. Due to the trough technology, leaves collect on one end of the gutter guard. Technology makes it easier to brush off leaves. Raptor gutter guards are also available in a super pack to fit 6- and 7-inch gutters.

Key Features

  • Stainless steel micro-mesh
  • V- Bend Technology
  • Suitable for 5-inch gutters
  • 12 pieces of 4 feet each (48 ft gutter cover)
  • Self-tapping screws and driver bits provided
  • Includes an installation manual
  • 25-year warranty

Pros

  • Non-corrosive
  • Sturdy materials that do not warp
  • Sample pack available
  • Suitable for homeowners who collect rainwater

Cons

  • The mesh might clog with pine needles
  • It’s challenging to cut the pieces to fit a small gutter section

FlexxPoint

FlexxPoint

FlexxPoint’s gutter guard includes four-foot sections for easy installation. It screws onto the gutter’s front lip and the fascia board at the back. The leaf guard’s 3-point system aerates wet leaves and debris, ensuring they don’t stick on the surface. The wind then blows the leaves off. The holes are small, blocking any significant particles and bulky debris. Dirt washes off without clogging your gutters.

Key Features

  • Material: 0.019 heavy gauge aluminum
  • It comes in four-foot sections
  • ⅛-inch holes
  • Screw-in design
  • Available in various sizes
  • Colors: White, matte aluminum, thermal thaw black, and brown
  • 30-year warranty
  • Visible from the ground

Pros

  • It comes in small sections that are easy to handle
  • Sturdy built
  • Cheaper than its counterparts

Cons

  • Difficult to install on shingles

Gutterglove

Gutterglove

Gutterglove offers both professional and DIY gutter guards. Gutter Guard by Gutterglove is their DIY option. The gutter screens are made of stainless steel and aluminum for durability. It’s easy to screw them on all roof types: asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and tiles. You can also tape them on instead.

Gutterglove’s filtration system only allows water through the micro-mesh. As a result, these guards are suitable for collecting non-potable rainwater.

Key Features

  • Stainless steel micro-mesh
  • 100% recyclable materials
  • Blocks out leaves, pine needles, seed pods, and roof grit
  • V-Bend Technology
  • It comes in 4 ft sections (20 pieces)
  • Fits on 4- and 5-inch gutters
  • 25-year warranty

Pros

  • They provide installation steps
  • Flexible for a custom fit
  • Prevents nesting
  • Includes a free cleaning brush

Cons

  • Installing on a sloped roof causes water run-off

GutterBrush

GutterBrush

Gutterbrush has cylinder-shaped bristles to keep leaves and birds off your gutter system. Tiny pine needles and dust wash away over time. Installation is simple: you slide it into the existing gutters. GutterBrush fits well in K-style gutters.

Key Features

  • It comes in 6-foot-long sections
  • Suitable for 5- and 6-inch gutters
  • 10-year material warranty
  • It can bend and fold

Pros

  • Anti-clog system
  • Does not void roof warranty
  • Tool-free installation
  • Available in longer sections

Cons

  • Homeowners have to clean the brushes from time to time

Why Gutter Guards Are Necessary

Gutter guards are essential as they keep your gutters free from leaves, twigs, and debris.


Easy Maintenance

Failing to maintain gutters leads to the growth of mold and mildew. Gutter guards keep the sections clean and dry. If your gutters have mold or mildew buildup, professional cleaning might help. Gutter guards save you from regular cleaning and maintenance.


Fire Protection

During a wildfire, embers can land on gutters. Dry leaves on the channels ignite a fire to the roof and fascia. Installing a gutter cover prevents dry leaves and twigs from sitting in your gutters.


Extends the Life Span of Gutters

Gutter guards reduce future repair costs. You won’t need to dismantle your downspouts or the gutter system. Without a filter, dirt blockage causes water to stagnate. Over time, the gutters will corrode. Gutter protection using leaf guards ensures water flows to the downspout. With proper water flow, gutters don’t sag, and you won’t damage the roof’s fascia board.


Improve Your Home’s Resale Value

Potential buyers often hunt for a home that requires minimal maintenance. Gutter guards are ideal for homes with a lot of tree cover. The gutters will be safe from falling seeds and branches.

While leaf guards keep leaves and dirt from entering the gutters, they don’t offer foolproof protection. You still need to brush off leaves on the surface of the gutter guards. Clean your gutters at least once a year after installing leaf guards.


Gutter Guard Considerations

Installation

Installing permanent gutter guards requires screwing in and drilling onto the gutters. Friction-fit gutter guards, like gutter brushes, have a more accessible and tool-free installation process. You can also remove them for cleaning.

It is simple to install gutter covers on single-story buildings. A pro install costs less compared to two-story houses. It’s also safer for homeowners who do it themselves. You’ll need to make several trips up and down the ladder for tall buildings.

Size

Gutter guards fit 4-, 5-, or 6-inch wide gutters. These are the most common sizes for residential gutter guards. Measure your gutter’s width to know what size of leaf guards to get. Measure from the outer front edge to the back edge. Calculate the linear feet of your gutters to estimate the number of gutter guard pieces.

Warranty

Gutter protection companies offer a lifetime warranty on their products. The warranty may be transferable to new owners if you sell the house. Aside from a defect warranty, a dealer can also issue a performance guarantee.

If the gutter covers clog at any point, they offer cleaning services for free. Read the warranty before signing to understand the terms and conditions.

Aesthetics

Visible gutters guards come in various colors to match or compliment your roof. For instance, Mastershield gutter guards are available in 14 colors. A gutter guard finish should not crack or chip. High-quality finish paint is worthwhile given the adverse weather conditions to which leaf guards are subject.

Material/ Durability

The gutter cover material is as important as its style. Both plastic and metal gutter guards have their benefits and drawbacks.

  • Steel: Steel makes corrosion resistant gutter guards and holds substantial weight without bending.
  • Copper: Copper gutter guards are rust resistant and withstand harsh weather. If you have copper gutters, consider getting copper covers too. Installing aluminum and steel guards can corrode the copper gutters due to electrolysis.
  • Aluminum: Aluminum doesn’t rust but isn’t as sturdy as steel. Aluminum is lightweight, making it easy to install gutter guards.
  • Foam: Foam gutter guards let water through the pores while keeping out leaves and dirt. They are inexpensive and easy to install. Yet, foam gutter guards might not be the best option. Foam soaks during heavy rains, leading to mold and mildew growth.
  • Plastic: Plastic is an affordable gutter protection material. Plastic gutter screens snap onto the gutters. The major drawback to plastic is that it warps and may also crack in cold temperatures.

Visibility

Reverse-curve and screen guards are visible from the ground. It’s best to have them in colors that match your siding or gutters. You can buy foam or brush leaf guards if you prefer hidden gutter guards.

Price

The average price of gutter guards ranges between $0.6 and $6.5 per linear foot. Gutter guard costs vary depending on the material and style.


Gutter Guards Installation: Tips & Hacks

You need a tape measure, drill, screwdriver, and fasteners when installing gutter guards. It’s best to have a helping hand, especially when using a ladder. You should practice all safety measures when installing gutter guards.

Safety Considerations

Before you start climbing, make sure your ladder is secure. Wear a tool belt to keep your hands free when installing gutter guards. Never use the ladder’s top step, as it can cause imbalance. If you are afraid of heights or take medication that may cause dizziness, it is best to hire a professional.


Should I DIY or Hire a Professional?

DIY gutter guards are cheaper to install, considering you don’t pay labor costs. Labor costs range between $2 and $12 per linear foot. You need some handyman skills to install gutter covers. Permanent installation involves drilling and cutting on the gutter corners. Look for DIY gutter guards with an installation manual. You can also learn from installation videos on YouTube.

Hiring a professional contractor is practical if you have a two- or three-story house. Though it’ll cost you more than DIY, hiring a contractor leaves little room for errors. Most reputable companies give warranties on gutter guards and installation.


Planning for Gutter Guard Installation

  1. Clean your gutters. Use basic gutter cleaning tools to remove leaves and dirt from your gutters.
  2. Make repairs, if any. Most gutter problems like sagging or leaking gutters are easy to fix. Ensure all gutter sections are in good condition.
  3. Read the installation manual step-by-step. You do not want loose-fitted gutter guards, which could cause havoc when it rains.
  4. Gather all the tools you’ll need.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Ladder
  • Screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • Tin snip or hacksaw
  • Clamp (optional)
  • Fasteners

The tools you need will depend on the installation method of your gutter guards. Snap-on gutter guards don’t use fasteners; they fit under shingles or gutter edges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

What’s the best gutter guard available?

Micro-mesh gutter guards are among the best gutter covers. Micro-mesh gaps are smaller than screen gutter covers. They protect the gutter system from clogs since they only allow water to pass through. Materials used to create micro-mesh screens include aluminum and stainless steel.

Can gutter guards withstand heavy rain?

Gutter guards can handle intense water flow through them. Gutter guards fail when blocked with pine needles, leaves, or dirt. Installing the proper gutter guards and maintenance ensures rainwater flows into the gutters.

How do you clean gutters while the guards are still in place?

Brush off all dry leaves and dirt on the gutter guards. Next, run a high-pressure hose pipe through the mesh. Removable inserts allow you to clean the gutters and reattach them after cleaning.

Do gutter guards cause ice build-up?

No, gutter guards do not create ice dams. Metal gutter covers can freeze and cause icicles. Placing heat cables in gutter guards helps alleviate this problem.

Will gutter guards void my roof warranty?

Invasive gutter guards void a roof warranty. If you want to install a gutter guard, you shouldn’t have to lift your shingles. Check your roof warranty to be sure.

Gutter Guards Conclusion

Gutter guards are easy to install on existing gutters. Some gutter protection companies also offer gutter replacement services. Observing the type of tree cover around your property is the best way to choose a gutter guard.

If you don’t select a reliable gutter guard, debris ends up in your downspouts. Clogging keeps water from flowing in the gutter system. The most suitable gutter guard protects your landscaping. It keeps your siding and basement from flooding.